April 9, 2008 - Kynten Hannon, a senior at Knightstown High School, was named as one of 12 finalists in the "Indiana leaders of Tomorrow" program and received a $500 cash award for college and $500 for her school, a donation from EMBARQ.

EMBARQ initiated the statewide "Indiana leaders of Tomorrow" program and partnered with the The Banner to recognize young leaders in Grades 9-12 for their leadership through community volunteerism, academic success and extracurricular activities.

Hannon, daughter of J.D. and Donna Hannons of Carthage, was selected as the Fortville District finalist of the "Indiana leaders of Tomorrow" program for her volunteer efforts in numerous community projects including to help her town decorate for Christmas in 2005 and 2006. She also helped landscape the town's welcome signs. Hannon also volunteers at local historical cemeteries, helping establish property lines, finding grave markers and fixing and cleaning them. local nursing homes benefit from Hannon's volunteerism, as she brings residents pets to enjoy. Kynten helped organize and operate a local blood drive.

The past two years she served as Chairman for the Rock for Riley Concert to benefit Riley Hospital for Children. In addition, Knightstown's Fall Festival, the Rush County Fair concession stand and the home basketball game concession stands have benefited from her service. Academically, Hannon is a member of the science, English and interdisciplinary Academic Bowl teams and was nominated as a US American Achiever in History and Government last year. Since entering junior high school, Kynten has won multiple local, state and national essay contests through the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) about the abuses of alcohol, tobacco and drugs. A liaison for the "VOICE" anti-drug youth movement at Knightstown High School, she also attend a youth summit for the VOICE program and appeared in anti-tobacco commercials on television. Kynten is a member of the Student Council, secretary of the History Club, and member of the Home Economics Club. She has been a nine year member of 4-H and is currently the president of her club. She was captain of the girls cross country team, where she was awarded the most valuable runner and is currently on the softball team.

The statewide winner of the "Indiana leaders of Tomorrow" program was Kyle Gough of Westview High School in Topeka. Gough was selected as the winner by a panel of judges from more than 250 nominations generated around the state.